Best playgrounds in Penrith

• Fully fenced
• Shade
• Toilets
• BBQ
• Parking
• Accessible play
• Water play

Ron Mulock Oval is the playground to choose if fencing comes first. The playspace is fully fenced and has a rope climbing structure, swings and an inclusive swing, with shade sails over the play area. Water play sets it apart from the other playgrounds here. Accessible toilets, a BBQ and off-street parking are listed for the reserve, so a family can plan a longer stop. The playground sits near the BBQ area in the middle of the Thornton Estate.

Best for: Parents who put fencing and a splash area first

• Fully fenced
• Toilets
• Parking

Parker Street Reserve is the pick when a playground visit fits around sport. Its large multiplay unit with slides is fully fenced and sits beside two sports fields, so a parent can keep an eye on training while the children play. The refurbished amenity building has toilets and accessible toilets, and off-street parking is reached from King Street. The text gives no shade or BBQ for the playground, so bring a hat and your own picnic. It suits young children.

Best for: Families with a sport session and a playground on the same afternoon

• Shade
• Parking

Judges Park is the one for a shady session with a walk on the side. The multiplay unit, climbing net and swings have a shade sail over them, and a covered children's play area sits alongside. Bench seats are placed so carers can watch the children. The paved paths suit prams and pushchairs, and there is plenty of parking. Penrith station is about 550 m away.

Best for: Carers who want shade over the play equipment and paths for a stroll

• Shade
• Accessible play

Burcher Park is the pick for a group with different ages and needs. The multiplay unit and slide are the main draw, and the swings include an inclusive one for children who need extra support. Nature play and musical elements add more to do. Wheelchair accessible pathways reach the play area, and the text gives no toilets, BBQs or parking, so plan a shorter visit.

Best for: Families with children of different ages, including a child who needs an inclusive swing

• Shade

Families with toddlers who want to eat outdoors should head to Henry Brigden Park. A multi-play unit with slides and climbing equipment sits beside a swing set with toddler swings, a rocker and a play ice cream van. New shade and landscaping cover the playspace, and a shaded picnic table, a bench seat and a drinking fountain sit beside it. The Shack cafe is about 300 m away for a coffee.

Best for: Parents of toddlers who want shade and a picnic table beside the play

• Not fenced
• Shade

Ladbury Avenue Reserve is the choice for imaginative play. The nest swing, multi-play unit and imaginative play area sit under a shade sail, and a picnic table stands under a shelter by the playspace. Wheelchair-accessible pathways run through the playspace, so strollers and wheelchairs can get around the equipment. No fence is listed for this playspace, so younger children need an adult close by.

Best for: Children who like role play, and families who want a covered picnic spot